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In a recent interview, Twitch CEO Dan Clancy expressed the need for gambling sites to be regulated by governing bodies before they can be streamed on the platform.
Twitch’s Troubled History with Gambling
Twitch and gambling have had a contentious relationship. On October 18, Twitch implemented a new policy targeting gambling streams, resulting in specific sites like Stake.com and Rollbit.com being banned from the platform.
In response to these bans, Stake.com created its own streaming site called Kick, which takes a more relaxed approach to gambling streams.
Unregulated Nature of Gambling Sites
However, the bans on specific sites and streams were not due to the act of gambling itself, but rather the lack of regulation. During a May 31 interview with streamer Filian, Twitch CEO Dan Clancy clarified the rationale behind the bans.
When Filian asked about the types of gambling streams that are banned on Twitch, as she had streamed a poker event that left her audience confused, Clancy explained that it is not the act of gambling that is the issue, but rather the unregulated nature of certain gambling sites.
Clancy emphasized the concern over unregulated offshore gambling sites that lack oversight. These sites operate without anyone monitoring factors such as odds on the craps tables, potential tweaking or changes, as they are not subject to regulation.
Protecting the Twitch Community
Clancy also highlighted the significant amount of money flowing from Twitch into these unregulated gambling sites. This raised concerns for Twitch regarding the well-being of its creators and the community.
He stated, “The amount of money that was flowing, where our creators were building these communities and connections that they formed on Twitch, to drive people to these sites, it was a significant amount of money to a small number of creators. And we decided we didn’t think that was good for the community, so we banned unregulated ones.”
Differentiating Between Gambling Streams and Unregulated Sites
Clancy reiterated that streaming gambling itself is not the issue. Twitch’s concern lies with creators who host gambling streams that promote unregulated sites.
When asked if Twitch would ever unban unregulated sites, Clancy expressed his personal opinion. He stated that if these sites become regulated and comply with the regulations of major countries in terms of operating as a gambling site, Twitch would consider lifting the ban.
However, Clancy emphasized the importance of adhering to consumer protection laws. If the sites fail to comply with these laws, he believes Twitch should not allow them on the platform.
Seeking Regulation for Responsible Streaming
Twitch’s CEO, Dan Clancy, recognizes the need for regulation in the gambling industry. By advocating for governing bodies to oversee and regulate gambling sites, Twitch aims to ensure a safer and more responsible environment for its community and content creators.
